
Author 



Title 



Iitiprmt. 



16 — 47372-2 OPO 



'^ 



SPEECHES 



OF 



General U. S. Grant 

REPUBLICAN CANDIDATE FOR 

EIGHTEENTH PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, 

BEING EXTRACTS FROM 

Speeches, i^etters, Orders, R/jilitary and State 'papers. 



J 



-♦-««»>-♦- 



" This is a Republic where the will of the People is the law of the 
land. I beg that their voice may be heard^ 




"Pa-tient of* toils, sefefiLV^ 'Eii^iil alarms; 
IiiflexiSile of faith, iii^^iiicitole of" ax-mss," 



T.r\:\- .- 



n eaur Ji 



PUBLISHED BY THE 

Union Republican Congressional Executive Committee, 

AVaslilngton, 13. O. 

GIBSON BROTHERS, PRINTERS. 
1868. 



f) 



" Man of long-enduring blood i 
The statesman-warrior, moderate, resolute, 
Whole in himself, a common good. 
Man of amplest influence. 
Yet clearest of ambitious crime, 
Our greatest, yet with least pretence, 
Great in council, and great in war, 
Foremost Captain of /ius time; 
Eich in saving common-sense, 
And, as the greatest only are, 
In his simplicity sublime. 

* Hs * * * 

"In praise and dispraise the same, 
A man of well attempered fame. 
cijric muse, to such a name. 
To such a name for ages long. 
To such a name, 

Preserve a broad approach to fame, 
And ever-ringing avenues of song. 

***** 

"Thro' the centuries let a people's voice, 
In full acclaim, 
A people's voice, 

The proof and echo of all human fame, 
A people's voice, when they rejoice 
At civic revel and pomp and game. 
Attest their great commander's claim 
With honor, honor, honor, honor to Mpa, 
Eternal honor to his name. r*/" "" 

* * * • * * o 

' ' Yet remember all 
He spoke among you, and the Man who spoke; 

Who never sold the truth to serve the hour. 
Nor paltered with Eternal God for poicer ; 

Who let the turbid streams of rumor flow 

Thr& either babbling world of high and low ; 

Whose life was work, whose language rife 

With rugged maxims hewn from life; 

Who never spoke against a foe. 
^ ***** 

"Let his great example stand 
. Colossal, seen of every land, 

! And keep the soldier firm, the statesman pure, 

; Till, in all lands and thro' all human story 

'■■ The path of duty be the way to glory : 

And let the land whose hearths he saved from shame 

For many and many an age proclaim 

At civic "revel and pomp and game, 

And when the long illumined cities flame. 

Their ever-loyal iron leader's fame. 

With honor, honor, honor, honor to him, 

Eternal honor to his name." 

"If elected to the office of President of the United States, it will be my endeavor to admia- 
istet all the laws in good faith, with economy, and with the view of giving peace, quiet, and 
protection everywhere."— X««er accepting National Republican nomination. 

" While it waa never a desire of mine to be a candidate for political office, it affords me great 
grafjfication to feel that I have the support of those who were with me in the war. If I did 
act feel that I had the confidence of those, I should feel less desirous of accepting theVposition. 
Acceptance ia not a matter of choice, but duty."— ie«er accepting the Soldiers' ana\Sailor»' 
rumination, ' 

) 
. I 



if 

'* Our Candidate — Match Him.' 



I . ^ ^ X r TT >» 



Demosthenes declared that eloquence consisted in "action!" Were the greatest 
of ancient orators now living, he would find in these pages the amplest proof of 
his theory. General Grant, though a man of few words, has always shown 
himself ready with those most fitting. In these pages will be found wise expres- 
sion properly accompanying great deeds ; the statesmanship of common sense 
aptly offered, and a manliness of character that the world cannot but admire. 
We offer with pride the recorded opinions of the Republican candidate. General 
U. S. Grant. 



THE KEY-NOTE. 



"I DO NOT INTEND THAT IT SHALL KEEP ME FROM FIGHTING FOR OUR 
DEAR OLD FLAG WHEN THE HOUR OF BATTLE COMES." 

Grant to his father before Sumpter was fired on — 1861. 



" UNCLE SAM HAS EDUCATED ME FOR THE ARMY. THOUGH I HAVE SERVED 
HIM THROUGH ONE WAR, I DO NOT FEEL THAT I HAVE YET PAID THE DEBT. 
I AM STILL READY TO DISCHARGE MY OBLIGATIONS, AND SHALL THEREFORE 

SEE UNCiiE SAM THROUGH THIS WAR, TOO:'— Grant at Galena, April 15, 1861. 

3i.''4;80"o't i [ • 

''I LEFT THE ARMY, EXPECTING NEVER TO RETURN. I AM NO SEEKER 
FOR POSITION, BUT THE COUNTRY, WHICH EDUCATED ME, IS IN SORE 
PERIL, AND, AS A MAN OF HONOR, I FEEL BOUND TO OFFER MY SER- 
VICES FOR WHATEVER THEY ARE WORTH." 

Grant to Hon. E. B. Washburne, April, 1861. 



*' I would rather like a regiment, yet there are few men really competent to command 
a thousand soldiers. I doubt whether I am one of them. ''^ — Grant at Springfield, April, i86i. 



.:■»■ 



'''^'<«I DONT KNOW ANYTHING ABOUT MAKING SPEECHES; THAT IS NOT IN MY LINE; 
BUT WE ARE FORMING A COMPANY IN GALENA, AND MEAN TO DO WHAT WE CAN FOS 
iPUTTING DOWN THE REBELLION. IF ANY OF YOU FEEL LIKE ENLISTING, I WILL GIVE 
YOU ALL THE INFORMATION AND HELP I CAN."— Grant at a war meeting, Galena, III., April 17, 1861. 



.'.sViWL.^ 



ASSUMING COMMAND. 



"' *'/ hewe come among you, not as an enemy, but as your fellow citizen ; not to maltreat or 
aBBoy yo«, but to respect and enforce the rights of all loyal citizens. * * * I am here to 
defend you against this enemy, to assist the authority and sovereignty of your government. I have 
nothing to do with opinions. I shall deal only with armed rebellion and its aiders and abators. 
* * * The strong arm of the Government is here to protect its friends, and punish its enemies." 

Grant to citizens of Paducab, S^t. 6, 1861. 



"THE BEGINNING OF THE END!" 

" la regard to an exchange of prisoners, as proposed, I can of my own accordance make none. 
I recognize no southern coi\federacy mysdf" — Grant to Polk, October, 1861. 

"General, we are surrbunded !" ^ ^ \^' 

" "Well, if that is so, we must cut our waj' out as we cut our way in," was the cool replj. 

Grant and Staff Officer at Bdmont. 

" We have whipped them once, and 1 think we can do it again:' — Grant at Belmont. 

Some regimental commanders were afraid of censure for their conduct at Belmont. One 
3f them waited on Grant and obtained no satisfaction. Afterwards the General said to a friend : 
"Colonel is afraid I will report his bad conduct." ' JAWi' ' 

"Why don't you doit?" was the reply. "He and the other colonels are to blame for 
their disobedience, which had nearly involved you in a disaster." 

" These officers had never been under fire,'' said Grant. "They did not understand how 
jerious an affair it was, and they will never forget the lesson they learned. I can judge from 
their conduct in the action that they are made of the right stuff. It is better that I should lose 
my position, if if must be'; than that the cdiintry should los^ the services of five such gallant offi.cers 
when good men are scarce.'^ 

Polk, the rebel commander, at Columbus, Ky., in 1861-2, and General Grant met under a 
flag of truce. After business was concluded, an interchange of social courtesies took place. 
Polk offered a toast to " the memory of George "Washington " — he paused then, as the glasses 
were raised, continued "the first rehei:' There was a laugh on the part of the Union officers. 
Shortly after flags were again exchanged, and this time it was Grant who offered a toast. It was 
"equal rights for all;" the 'General paused, glasses were raised, and he added, ^' white or 
black." The rebels were beaten, and good humoredly acknowledged the fact. 



MILITARY CONTROL OF WESTERN STEAMBOAT TRAFFIC. 

General Grant's earliest command at Cairo impressed him with the necessity of 

controlling the traffic on the Mississippi, Missouri, Ohio, and other waters. The 

steamboat men were not remarkably loyal as a class. Then, and throughout the^ 

war. the rebels received large supplies by their aid. Grant's sagacity and foresight 

is shown in the following : 

Headotartebs District S. E. M., Cairo, Nov. 22, 1861. 
Capt. J. C. WitsoN, St. Louis, 3Io.: 

I have frequently reported to the Western Department that the line of steamers plying 
between St. Louis a;nd Cairb',' by landing at points on the Missouri shore, were enabled to, 
afford aid and comfort to the eriemy. 

I have been reliably informed that some of the officers, particularly the clerks of these 
boats, were regularly in the employ of the Southern Confederacy. The case of the "Platte 
Valley," a few days since, confirmed me in this belief. ,,„-..., ^.i-t ,■ . , 

I have heretofore recommended that all the carrying trade l)e\weeniiere'^and St. Louis be per- 
formed by Government, charging uniform rates. I would respectfully renew the suggestion, 
and, in consideration of the special disloyalty of South-East Missouri, I would further recommend 
that all commerce be cut off from all points south of Cape Girardeau. There is not a sufficiency 
of Union sentiment left in this portion of the State to save Sodom. This is shown from the fact 
that Jeff. Thompson, and any of the rebels, can go into Charleston and spend hours, or encamp 
for the night on their way north to depredate upon Union men, and not one loyalist is_ found to 
report the fact to our pickets, stationed but one-and-a-half miles off. ' 

(Si^ed.) U. S. GRANT, Brigadier General. 

OPPOSITION TO SPECULATION-SUSTAINING THE PRODUCER 

AND DEMANDING ECONOMY. , 

IIeadqcarteus District op Cairo, Cairo, Jan. 2, 1862. 
Capt. J. C. Kelton, St. Louis, Mo,: 

I find that the Quartermasters here and at Puducah have advertised for bids to furnish ■ 
forage at the two places, and have closed the contracts. This was done without my knowl- 



edge, and I do not look Upon the contract as favorable for the Govbrnmcnt. I have, therefore 
taken the liberty of annulling; the Contract made hero, and directed the Qnartermasfcr, Capt. 
Baxter, to purchase for the present. From the statement of Capt. Baxter about twenty per 
cent, can be saved below the contract prices on hay, and about fifteen per cent, on grain. 
I would respectfully ask whetlier 1 have not the power, and whether it is not my diitv, to 
examine all contracts made within the District, and, if satisfactory to me, require that thev be 
sent to Jlajor Allen, Chief Quartermaster of the Dei)artment, for approval before becomin<» 
binding upon Government. '!'■■ !j'J>i 

/ would sicrjgfst that the plan of letting large contracts, that can onhj be taken hy men of large 
capital, must necessarily be expensive. To avoid this I would recpiire the Quartermaster io pur- 
chase all the forage offered at market price, untilpublic notice was given that no more would be required. 
Or, if contracts must be made, receive all bids for u-haterer amount of o?ie or more articles the 
bidder might jjropose to furnish. This would enable the farmer to make a bid for his crop, wiUiovi 
having it pass through the hands of a speculator, U. S. GRANT,- Brigadier General. 



Headquarters District of Caieo, 
Major Robert Aixen, Chtef Q. M. DcpH Mo., Cairo, Jan. 3, 18G2. 

St. Louis, Mo.: 

I telegraphed you this morning to respect no contract paade in this District until you heard 
from me. I wrote to General Halleck on the subject last night, which letter probably will be 
laid before j'ou. ' : 

Extravagance seems to be the order of the day, and noio that I am investigating every Department, 
and all that is done here, I find that contracts are not given to the lowest bidders. There is probably 
some explanation tliat can be given — such as bids being put in informally, arising from igno- 
rance more than any other cause. I would recommend that Capt. Baxter, A. Q. M., now the 
purchasing Quartermaster here, be allowed to purchase in open market until the, atmosphere is purified 
somewhat. This is not applicable to Cairo alone, but to Paducah also. I do not know the 
merits of tlie contracts given, but I do know that nearly twenty per cent, can be saved to the 
Government by a7mulling present contracts, made without my knowledge, and adopting the jmrcha sing 
system. If contracts must be given, I would suggest the plan of receiving bids for any amount of corn, 
oats, or hay, that any bidder might propose furnishing. This plan would enable the farmer to bid 
for his crop, without having it pass through the hands of speculators. 

(Signed.) U. S. GRANT, Brigadier General. 

A law should, be passed providing that "all fraudulent contractors be impressed into the ranks, 
or, still better, into the gunboat service, where they could have no cliance of deserting. ^^ -<■ 

Grant to Halleck, January, 1862. 



IN THE FIELD. 

"If it was discretionary with me, with a little addition to my present force, I would take 
Columbus." — Grant to Fremont, November, 1861. 



"Be ready to charge and take the works by storm promptly on receipt ^ orders.'^ — Orders to 
troops at Fcrt Henry, February 6th, 1862. 

"Are the haversacks filled? " asked the General. On examination three days rations were 
found. Grant's conclusions were rapid : — "They mean to cut their way out; and have no idea 
of staying to fight us. Which party attacks now will whip, and the rebels will have to be very 
quick to beat us." — Grant at Donelson, after examining prisoners. 

' ' No terms other than an unconditional and immediate surrender can be accepted. I propose to 
move immediately updn your ivorks." — Grant to Buckner, at Donelson, February I4th, 1362. 

" Let us show to our fellow-citizens of these States that we come merely to crush out this 
rebellion, and to restore to them peace and the benefits of the Constitution and the Union, of 
which they have been deprived by selfish and unprincipled leaders. They have been toid that we 
come to optpress and plunder . By our acts we will undeceive them. We xuill prove to them that wt 
come to restore, not violate, the Constitution and the laws. In restoring to them the glorious flag of 
the Union, we will assure them that they shall enjoy under its folds the same protection of life and 
property as informer days." — Grant, on assuming command of West Tennessee, Feb. 23, 1862. 



" I have done my very best to obey orders, and to carry out the interests of the service. If 
my course is not satisfactory, remove me at once. / do not wish in any way to impede the success 
of our arms. * * * I do not feel that I have neglected a single duty." — From despatch to 
Ealleck, February, 1862. • 



Daring the darkest hours of the first day's fighting at Pittsburg Landing, April G, 1862, 
Major General Don Carlos Buell arrived on the field. He had ridden in advance of his own army 
a long distance. Seeing the desperate state of affairs, he asked Grant — 

'■ What preparations have you made to secure your retreat, General ? " 

" We shall not retreat, sir." 

"But it is possible," added Buell ; "and a prudent general always provides for contin- 
gencies." 

" Well, there are the tfoats," said Grant. 

" The boats 1 " said Buell. " But they will not hold over ten thousand men, and we have 
thirty thousand." 

" They will hold more than we shall retreat with. We shall whip them yet,'' was Grant's char- 
acteristic reply. 



"Attack with a heavy skirmish line as soon it is light enough to see, and then follow up 
with the entire command, leaving no reserves." — Grant's instructions for second day's fight at 
Pittsburg Landing. 



" I am ready, however, to do with all my migjit whatever you may direct, without criticism." 

Grant to Halleck, October 25, 1862. 



' ' The work of reducing Vicksburg will take time and men, but can be accomplished . " — Grant 
to Halleck, January, 1863. 



" The movements of an enemy necessarily determine count er-mov ememts ." — Grant's instruction 
to McClernand. 



''I cannot afford to quarrel with a man lam obliged to command." — Grant on McClernand in 
Vicksburg campaign. 



"Soldiers, I thank yot ! That is all I can say. Yod hatb done a good day's wore 
TO-DAY, BDT YOU MUST DO A BETTER ONE TO-MORROW." — Grant after Bruinsburg, Miss., Mayl, 1863-. 



"Certainly, use the negroes, and everj'thing within your command, to the best advantage." 

5f rj'j! Grant to Parke, Vicksburg campaign. 



'^Promptly, at the hour designated, all will start at quick time, with bayonet fixed, and march 
immediately v^on the enemy, without firing a gun until the outer works are carried." — Order of 
assault, Vicksburg, May 22, 1863. 



"You will suspend the further publication of your paper. The spirit with which it is con- 
ducted is regarded as both incendiary and treasonable, audits issue cannot longer be tolerated." 

Order on the Memphis Avalanche, July 1, 1862. 



During the discussion of {Jans before Vicksburg for the taking of that position, in April, 
1863, General Sherman assured Grant, the only way to do it was to move against it from soiie 
high ground as a base, on the north. "This," said Grant, "will re(juire us to go back to 
Memphis." 

" E.\actly 6®," said Sherman, and set forth his reasons. 

Grant replied, "I shall lake no step backward: it would seem to the country, now discouraged^ 
like a retreat. I have considered the plan, and have determined to carry it out." 



"It is expected that all commanders will especially exert themselves in carrying cnit the policy of the 
administration, not only in organizing colored regiments and rendering them efficient, but also m 
removing prejudice agai7ist them." — Grant's order, January, 1863. 



■ % 

" You may rely on my carrying out any policy ordered by proper authority to the best of 
my ability." — Grant to Halleck, April, 1863. 

"In this battle [Milliken's Bend] most of the troops engaged were Africans, who had but 
little experience in the use of arms. Their conduct is said, however, to hare been most gallant, 
and, I doubt not, with good oflScers, they will va^e good troops." 

.^,. J, Grant to Ilalleck, June, 1863. 

A rebel woman living in the outskirts, who had remained in her battered tenement, asked 
.General Grant one day, when he stopped for some water, if he ever expected to take Vicksburg. 
He said " yes." 

"But when?" said the woman. 

^^ I don't know when; but I shall take it if I stay here thirty years. ^' 

" The effusion of blood you propose stopping by this course can be ended at any time you 
may choose by an unconditional surrender of the city and garrison. Hen who have shown so much 
endurance and courage as those now in Vicksburg will always challenge the respect due them as 
prisoners of war. I do not favor the proposition of appointing commissioners to arrange terms 
of capitulation, because I have no other terms than those indicated above." 

Grant's reply to Pemberton's proposal to surrender Vicksburg, July 3, 1863. 

" The first reason for this Is their great fitness for any command that it may ever become 
necessary to entrust to them. Second, their great purity of character, and disinterestedness in 
everything except the faithful performance of their duty, and the success of every one engaged 
in the great battle for the preservation of the Union. Third, they have honorably won this 
distinction upon many well-fought battle-fields. The promotion of such men as Sherman and 
McPherson always adds strength to our army " — Grant's letter recommending their promotion. 

"I CARE NOTHING FOR PROMOTION SO LONG AS OUR ARMS ARE SUCCESSFUL." — Grant to Sherman. 



" If the rebels give us one week more time, I think all danger of losing territory now held 
by us will have passed away, and preparations may commence for active operations." 

Telegram from Chattanooga, October 26, 1863. 

"For every act of violence to the person of an unarmed Union citizen, a secessionist will be 
arrested, and held as hostage for the delivery of the offender. For every dollar's worth of 
property taken from such citizens, or destroyed by raiders, an assessment will be made upon 
secessionists of the neighborhood, and collected by the nearest military forces, * # * and 
the amount thus collected paid over to the sufferers. * * * Wealthy secession citizens will 
be assessed in money and provisions for the support of Union refugees who have been or may 
be driven from their homes and into our lines by the acts of those with whom secession citizens 
are in sympathy." — Grant's order after bailie of Wauhalchie. 



OPINIONS, AXIOMS, AND ORDERS. 

" The stability of this Government and unity of this nation depend solely on the cordial 
support and the earnest loyalty of the people." — Reply to the address of Memphis Chamber of 
Commerce, August 25, 1863. 

"Human liberty the only true foundation of human government." — Granft Letter to Citi- 
zens of Memphis. 



"God gave us Lincoln and Liberty ; let us fight for both." — Grant's cold^aier toatt at a 
celebration of Washington's Birthday, 1863. 



In the Summer of '63, a Cincinnati firm, in which Mr. Grant, Sr., was interested, applied 
for a permit to trade. Mr. Mack, a member of this firm, in a; recent lawsuit, swore that the 
General's reply to the request was as follows : 

"I am always pleased, sir, to render any proper assistance in my power to my friends ; but 
I am a General of the Army of the United States Government, and I cannot discriminate between 
its citizens. I do not know why my father should write asking such a favor. It can have no influence 



,8 



with me. Tlie. request is improper . as it would give one an adoantaje over another and would lead 
to that demoralization which it is my endeavor to prevent. The attention op the military 

CANNOT BE DIVERTED FROM THE WORK IN HAND, VIZ : SAVING THE CO0NTBT, YOU Can take OUt a 

permit and trade along the river, as others are doing, and I shall be pleased to hear of your 



success. 



"My opinion is that all {ralde with any enemy, with whom we are at Va'r, is calculated to 
weaken us indirectly, I am opposed to selling or buying from them wMle War exists, exc-ept 
those within our lines." — Grant to Stanton, August 13, 18G3. 

" No theory of my own will ever stand in the way of my executing in good fa.\\h any order 
r may receive from tho.se in authority over me" — Grant to Secretary Chase, Juhj, 1863. 

"No matter what the restrictions thrown around trade, if any whatever is allowed, it will 
be made the means of supplying the enemy with all they want."— Cran^ to Secretary Chase, 18Q3. 

" I do not know how to impress oti you the necessity of holding on to East Tennessee ia 
strong enough terms " — Grant to Bumside beseiged at Ktioxville, November, 1863. '• 

"It is of the most vital importance that fiast Tennessee should be held." 

" T can hardly conceive the necessity of retreating from East Tennessee. If I did so at all, it 
would be after losing most of the army. I will not attempt to lay out a line of retreat.'" — Ibid. 

" I want the enemy's progress retarded at every point all it can be, only giving up each place 
when it becomes evid,ent that it cannot longer be held without endangering your force to 
capture." — Ibid. .,,,.• 

' ' Can you hold the line from Knoxville to Clinton for s&vea days ? If so, I think the wiioie 

Tennessee valley can be secured from present danger." — Ihid. 

._ ai 

"laccep't the commission, with gratitude for the high hbno'r conferred. With the aid of the 

noUe armies that have fought in so many fields of our common country, itivill be my earnest endkihor 

not to disappoint your expectations. I feel th& full weight of the responsibilities now devolving 

on me ; and I know that if they are met, it will be due to those armies, and, above all, to the 

favor of that Providence which leads both nations and men." >'' 'S'J'o «" ^'fg k{<k('. 

Ch-ant' s acceptance of the Lieut^fitht GenerdVs Commission. 

"Wr. President— Your very kind letter of yesterday is just received. The confidence yoa 
expressed for the future, and satisfaction for the past, in my military administration is arkiiowl- 
edged with pricle. It shall be my earnest endeavor that you and the country shall not be 
disappointed. From my first entry into the volunteesr service of the country to the preseritd«y 
I have never had cause of complaint, and have never expressed or implied a complaint against 
the administration or the Secretary of War for throwing any embarrassment in the way of my 
vigorously prosecuting what appeared to be my duty.'- Indeed, since the promotion which 
placed me in command of all the armies, and in view of the great responsibility and importance 
of success, I have been astonished at the readiness with which everything asked for has been 
yielded, without even an explanation being asked. Should my siiccess be less than I desire and 
expect, the least! can say is, the fault is not with you. •i'Vx.OXVLV^O 
"Very truly, your obedient servant. 
Letter to Mr. Lincoln. "U. S. GRANT, Lieutenant General:' 



SLAVERY ATID MILITARY NECESSITY. 

The earliest expression of General Grant on this subject, made when command- 
'm% at Cairo, is worthy attention. The slave referred to in this communication 
was claimed by the agent of a rebel surgeon — the agent residing in or near our 
Imes. Halleck's order, No. 8, prohibited such slave being admitted' into our camps: 

Headquarters Distbict op Cairo, Cairo, Jan. 5, 18G2. 
Col. L. F. Ross, Commanding U. S. Forces, Cape Girardeau, Mo.: 

I am instructed by General Grant to say to you that he has carefully read your communi- 
cation with reference to the slave of Dr. Henderson, and fully concurs in your views of the 
case. While it is not the policy of the military arm of the Government to ignore, or in any 
manner interfere with, the constitutional rights of loyal citizeoa, except when a military neces 



9 

Sity makes individualg subservient to ^the^ublic interest, it certainlj is not the policy of our 
army to in any manner aid those who in any manner aid the rebellion. The slare who is uaed 
to support the master who supports the rebellion, is" not to be restored to the master by military 
authority. If such a master has a eiml right to reclaim such property, he must resort to the civil 
authorilies to enforce that right. The general commnmling dues not feel it his duty to feed (tg foe, 
or in any manner contribute to their comfort. If Dr. Uendersou has. given aid and comfort lo the 
enemy, neither he nor his agents have any right to come within our lines, much less to inrolcn our 
kid and assistance/or any purpose whatever.' 

HI feel no inclination to retaliate for offences of irresponsible persons; but if it is the policy 
of any general intrusted with the command of troops to show no quarter, or to punish with 
death prisoners taken in battle, I will accept the issue. It may be that you propose a diiforent 
line of policy towards black troops and officers commanding them, to that practised towards 
white troops: if so, I can assure you that these colored troops are regulai'ly mustered into the 
service of the United Slates. The government, and all officers under the government, are bound 
to give the same protection to these troops that they do to any other troops." 

Grant to Rebel Gen. Dick Taylor, after battle of Milliken's Bend. 



o.r.rfj'he people of the North need not quarrel over the institution of slavery. What Vice- 
President Stephens acknowledges the corner-stone of the Confederacy is already knocked out. 
Slavery is already dead, and cannot be resurrected. It would take a standing army to maintain 
slavery in the South, if we were to make peace to-day, guaranteeing to the South all their 
former constitutional privileges. I never was an abolitionist, not even what could be called anii- 
itktv^y; but Itry to judge fairly (ind honestly; and it became patent to my mind, early in the rebel- 
tiori, that the North and South could never live at peace with each other except as one nation, and 
that without slavery. As anxious as I am to see peace established, I would not, therefore, be 
willing to see any settlement until this question is forever settled." , j. „ .> 

Grant's letter to Htm. E. B. Washburne, August 30, 1802. 



ENFRANCHISEMENT. 



-"*^€to to the U7iion Republicans in Congress, and them alone. Have nothing whatever to do with 
Northerners who opposed the war. They will never again be Intrusted with power. The more 
you consort with them, the more exacting the Republicans will be, and ought to bk. When 
you get home, urge your people to accept negro suffrage. If you had promptly adopted the consti- 
tutional am£ndment abolishing slavery, or the one making negroes cilizcris, a,ui guaranteeing the 
public debt, Congress would undoubtedly have admitted you before this Now it will insist 
upon adding impartial suffrage. The sooner you accept that, the better for all concerned." 

Advice to Gov. Orr, of S. C, and others, winter of 1866. 



■7 r> 



"Since that I have talked witli several members of Congress who are classed with the Radi- 
cals — Schenck and Boutwell, for instance. They express the most generous, views as to what 
would be done if the Constitutional amendments proposed by Congress were adopted by the 
Southern States. What was done in the case of Tennessee was an earnest of what would be 
done in all cases." — Letter to General Richard Taylor, (Rebel,) Nov. 25, 1866. 



"I never could have believed that I should favor giving negroe^^the right to vote ; ^ii4 (l^cU^ 
seems to me the only solution of our difficulties." — Grant in 1866. ■'•iih<l • filii.r.v I 

BEFORE RICHMOT^fD. 

" I assume command of the armies of the United States. Headquarters will be in the field, 
and, till further orders, will be with the Army of the Potomac." .) 

General order assuming general command of the army. 



" This is a wonderfully fine appearing army ; but itf has seemed to me it never fought its 
battles through." General Grant's criticism on the Army of the Potomac. 

"I have noticed that these Southerners fight desperately at first; yet when we hang on a 
day or two, we whip them awfully." — -Grant at the Wilderness, Hay 6, 1864. 



A 



" I PROPOSE TO FIGHT IT OUT ON THIS LINE, IF IT TAKES ALL SUMMER." 

G-ranVs Dispatch from the Wilderness, May, 1864. 



" Gentlemen, I cannot consider your recommendation ; my course doesn't lie in that direc- 
tion; it lies beyond Richmond 1" 

Grant's reply to officers who desired him to retreat after the 3d of May, 1864. 

"The rebels have now in their ranks their last man. * * » A man lost by them 
cannot be replaced. They have robbed the cradle and the grave equally to get their present force.' ' 

Grant to Hon. E. B. Washburne, August 16, 1864. 

A suggestion was made in Congress during the Atlanta campaign to place Sher- 
man in supreme command. The latter wrote Grant deprecatingly. He replied: 

"I/you are put above me, I shall always obey you, just as you always have me." 

"Concentrate all your available force; and if it is found that the enemy has moved north 
of the Potomac in large force, push North, follow him, attack him, wherever he can be found. 
Follow him, if driven south of the Potomac, as long as it is safe to do to." — Grant to Sheridan,'64. 

" In pushing up the Shenandoah valley, it is desirable that nothing should be left to invite 
the enemy to return. Take all provisions, forage, stock, wanted for the use of your command* 
such as cannot be consumed, destroy. * « « Bear in mind the object is 

to drive the enemy south, and to do this you want to keep him always in sight. Be guided in 
your course by the course he takes." — GraTit to Sheridan, 1864. 

In regard to the same campaign, Grant said that the valley should be so cleared that, 
" Crows Jlying over it would, for the season, have to carry their own rations^ 

" Rebel armies now are the only strategic points to strike at." 

Grant's instructions to Sherman, April 5, 1865. 



^^ I now feel like ending- the matter, if it is possible to do so, before going back. I do not want 
you, therefore, to cut loose, and go after the enemy's roads at present. In the morning push 
around the enemy, if you can, and get on to his right rear. The movements of the enemy's 
cavalry may, of course, modify your action. We will act all together as one army here until it is 
seen what can be done with the enemy." — Grant to Sheridan in pursuit of Lee, April, 1865. 



DEFEAT AND SUERENDER OF LEE. 



FIRST LETTER. , ., k ,00,. 

April 1, 1865. 
General — The result of the last week must convince you of the hopelessness of further 
resistance on the part of the Army of Northern Virginia in this struggle. I feel that it is so, 
and regard it as my duty to shift from myself the responsibility of any further effusion of 
blood, by asking of you the surrender of that portion of the Confederate States Army known 
as the "Army of Northern Virginia." U. S. GRANT, 

„ -n T^ T „ Lieutenant General. 

Gen. R. h. Lee. 

SECOND LETTER. 

April 8, 1865. 

General — Your note of last evening, in reply to mine of same date, asking condition on 
which I will accept the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia, is just received In reply, 
I would say, that, peace being my great desire, there is but one condition I would insist upon ; 
namely, that the men and officers surrendered shall be disqualified for taking up arms again 
against the Government of the United States until properly exchanged. I will meet you, or 
Will designate officers to meet any officers you may name for the same purpose, at any pomt 
£^reeable to you, lor the purpose of arranging definitely the terms upon which the surrender 
of the Army of Northern Virginia will be received. U. S. GRANT, 

Gen. R. E. Leb. Lieutenant General. 

TERMS OF SURRENDER. 

Appomattox Court-IIouse, Va., April 9, 1865. 

General— In accorddfi'ce With the ^ibstance of my letter to you of the 8th instant, I pro- 
pose to receive the surrender of the Army of Northern Virginia on the following terms, to wit : 
rolls of aii the officers and men to be made in dupi cate; one copy to be given to an officer to 
be designated bv me, the other to be retained by such officer or officers as you may designate. 
The officers to give their individual paroles not to take up arms against the Government of the 
United States until properly exchanged, and each company or regimental commander to sign a 



1^11 

like parole for the men of their commands. The arms, artUlcry, and public property, to be 
parked and stacked, and turned over to Iho officers appointed by me to receive them" This 
will not embrace the side-arms of the oflBcers, nor llieir private horses or bacrK:i'i:e. This done 
fock officer and man will be allowed to return to his home, not to bs disturbed In/ United States 
authority so long as they observe their paroles, and the laws in force whkre tiiky may uksidk 

U. S, GRANT, 
Gen. R. K Lbb. Lieute7iant General. 

CONGRATULATORY ORDERS TO TROOPS. 

" It has been his [the General's] fortune to have been in all the battles fought in Mexico by 
Seott and Taylor, save Buena Vista; and he never saw one more hotly contested, or where 
troops behaved with more gallantry. Such courage ivill insure victory wherever our flag may be 
borne and protected by such a class of men. To the brave who fell, the' sym/>athy of the country is 
due, and will be manifested in a manner unmistakable." — [After Belmont.'] 

"For four successive nights, without shelter, during the most inclement weather known in 
' this latitude, they faced an enemy in large force, in a position chosen by himself. Though 
strongly fortified by nature, all the additional safeguards suggested by science Vv'ere added. 
Without a murmur this was borne; prepai-ed at all times to receive an attack, and with con- 
tinuous skirmishing by day, resulting, ultimately, in forcing the enemy to surrender without 
conditions. 

" T'/ifi victory achieved is not only great in the effect it will have in breaking down rebellion, hut has 
secured the greatest number of prisoners of war ever taken in any battle on this continmt. Fort 
Donelson will hereafter be marked in capitals on the map of our united country: andthemen who 
foiught the battle will livt in the memory of a grateful people.^' — [After Donelson.] 

"The general commanding congratulates the troops who so gallantly maintained their 
position, repulsed and routed a numerically superior force of the enemy, composed of the flower 
of the Southern army, commanded by their ablest generals, and fought by them with all the 
desperation of despair. In numbers engaged, no such contest ever took place on tliis continent • 
in importance of result, but few such have taken place in the history of the world. 

" Whilst congratulating the brave and gallant soldiers, it becomes the duty of the general 
commanding to make special notice of the brave wounded and those killed on the field Whilst 
they leave friends and relations to mourn their loss, they have won a nation to gratitude, and 
undying laurels not to be forgotten by future generations, who will enjoy the blessings of the 
best government the sun ever shown upon, preserved by their valor." — [After Pittsburg Landing.'] 

" Besides the heavy artillery at the place, four field-pieces were captured, and some stores ; 
and the enemy were driven to destroy many more. The country is the most broken and 
difficult to operate in I ever saw. Our victory has been most complete, and the enemy is 
thoroughly demoralized." — Grant to Ualleck after Gru?id Gulf movement, 18G3. 

"The enemy surrendered this morning. The only terms allowed is their parole as prisoners 
erf" war. This I regard as a great advantage to us at this moment. It saves, probably, several 
days in the capture, and leaves troops and transports ready for immediate service. Sherman, 
with a large force, moves immediately vpon Johnston to drive him from the State." — Grant to 
Halleck, announcing the surrender of Vicksburg. 

''You have secured positions from which no rubellious poioer can drive or dislodge you. For all 
this the General commanding thanks you collectively and individually. The loyaV people of the 

United States thank and bkssyou. Their hopes and prayers for your success against this unholy 
Rebellion are with you daily. Their faith in you will not be in vain. Their hopes will not be 
blasted. Their prayers fo Almighiy God will be answered. You will go to other fields of *t rife • 
and ivith the iitvincible bravery and unflinching loya'ly to justice and right which have characterized 

lou in the past, you will protte that no enemy can^withstand you, and that no defences, however formi- 

' ble, can check your onward manh." — [After MiLsion Ridge.] 



UP' 
oat 



"•Soldiers of the Armies of the United States : 

" By your patriotic devotion to your country in the hour of danger and alarm, your magnifi- 
cent fighting, bravery and endurance, you have maintained the supremacy of the Union and 
t^he Constitution, overthrown all armed opposition to the enforcement of the laws and the 
p^-oclamatious forever abolishing slavery — the cause and pretext of the rebellion — and oi)oned the 




be the patriot's precedent in the delence of liberty and right in all time to come. In obedience 
to your country's call, you left your homes and families, and volunteered in her defence. Via- 
tory has crowned your valor and secured the purpose of your patriotic hearts ; aud with tlie 
gtatitude of your countrymen, and the highest honors a great and free nation can accord, you 
lyill soon be permitted to return to your homes and families, conscious of having dischar"-ed 
tl},e highest duty of American citizens. To achieve these glorious triumjihs, and secure to 
vtkirselveSj fellow-countrymen and posterity the |,ilessiags of free institutions, tens of thousands of 



vl2 

j^our gallant comrades have fallen, and sealed the priceless legacy with their blood. The graves 
of these a grattlul nation bedews with tears, honors their memories, and will ever cherish and 
support their stricken families." — lAjitr the surrender of Lee and Johnston.'] 

Speaking of the armies of the East and West, General Grant, in the closing words of his 
report, in 1803, says :;'' The splendid achievemfnts of each have nationalized our victories, 
removed all S'i'-iional jealousies, [of which we have unfortunately eyiperievced too much), and the 
cause of crimination and recrimination that might have followed tiad either section failed in 
its.duty. All have a proud record ; and all sections can well congratulate themselves and each 
other for having done their full share in restoring the supremacy of law over every foot of 
territory belonging to the United States. Let them Itope for perpetual peace and harmony viih 
Qiat enemy whose manhood, however mistaken the cause, drew forth such herculean deeds of valor."" 



MAXIMILIAN AND MEXICO. 

General Grant early urged that to support our neighbor Republic insured us 
peace. Ou the 19th of June, 1865, in au official letter to President Johnson,' 
General Grant says : ""';r ^"'!!!"" 

" The great interest which I feel in securing an honorable and permanent peace, whilst we 
still have in service a force suffirient to insure it, and the danger and disgrace which, in my 
judgment threaten us, unless positive and early measures are taken to avert it, induces me to 
lay my views before you in an official form. 

"In the first place, I regard the act of attempting to establish a monarchical government 
on this continent ia Mexico, by foreign bayonets, as an act of hostility against the Government of 
the Umted States. If allowed to go en iintil such a government is established, I see nothing before us 
but a long, expensive, and bloody war ; one in which the enemies of this country will be joined by 
tens of thousands of disciplined soldiers embittered against their Government by the experie7ice of 
{he last four years. 

" As a justification for open resistance to the estiiblishment of Maximilian's government in 
(Mexico, I would give the following reasons : 

'■^ First. The act of attempting to establish a nwnarcliy on this continent was an act of known 
hostility to the Government of the U?iitcd Slates. * * * * * * * * 

" Second. Every act of the empire of Maximilian has been hostile to the'Government of the 
TThited States. Matamoras and the whole Rio Grande, under his control, has been an open 
port to those in rebellion against this Government." * * » * * * * 



Speaking of the emigration of rebel leaders and soldiers to Mexico, Grant 

proceeds: ,i.;;f,^n„. . . , 

" That the leaders wili espouse the cause of the empire, purely out of hostility to this Gov- 
ernment, I feel tliere is no doubt. There is a hope that the rank and fde may take the opposite side, 
if any influence is allowed to work upon their reason.. But if a neutrality is to be observed 
which allows armed rebels to go to Mexico, and which keeps out all other immigrants, and 
which also denies to the liberals of Jlexico belligerent rights — the right to buy arms and 
munitions in foreign markets, and to transport them through friendly territory to their homes — 
I see no chnucc for such influence to be brought to bear. 

" What I would propose would be a solemn protest against the establishmeiit of a monarchical 
government in Mexico by the aid of fomign bayonets." * * * " The French have a just claim 
against Mexico, I would regard them as having triumphed, and would guarantee them suitable 
award for their grievances. Mexico would no doubt admit their claim ; it would not affect their 
territory or rights as a free people. 

'' The United States could take such pledges as would secure her against loss. * * If this 
course cannot be agreed upon, then I would recognize equal belligerent rights to both parties." 

On the 1st of September, 13C5, from Galena, 111., Grant wrote the President, that after 
mingling with the people for seven weeks, he is more than conyinced — 

'' That there is but one opinion as to the duty of the United States toward Mexico, or, 
rather, the usurpers in that country. All agree that, beside a yielding of the lon^-proclaimed 
Monroe doctrine, non-intervention in Mexican affairs will lead to an expensive and bloody war here- 
after or a yielding of territory now possessed by us. To let the empire of Maximilian be estab- 
lished on our Irontier, is to permit an enemy to establish hiinselt' who will require a large 



13 

standing .army to Tratch. * * The trade of an empire will be IcH to our commerce, and Anuricanf, 
instead oj being the vio4 favored people of the teorld ihrovylwid the length and breadth of this conti- 
ntnf, ivill be scoffed and laughed at by their.adjpining neighbors, both Norih and South-^the people 
of tbe British Provinces and of llcx,[co."— From J^. 1). liichardso7i' s Personal History of Grant. 

" There is but one party, one Govcrnmcut in Mexico whoae ivishes have claims to resp/ct from 
us. No policy has been adopted, by .our Governujeut jchich authurizcs.us to interfere on BIrxican 
soil with that country ; but there is nothing, that I know of, to prevent the free passage ofpeopl^ , 
or material going through our territory to the aid of the recognized Goi;ernmcnt. Our neuti^alily 
should prevent our allowing the same thing tchen the effect is to make war upon that, Govtrnmcnl, .to 
long as we are at peace with it." — ICid. Grant to Sheridan, ,Oct. 9, 18GG. 

. rvxf'j ■y-.iiiij-.jiS Tinpnn^TTTi . hn 
PROPOSED MEXICAN MISSION. 

About the time of the Maryland disturbances in ISGG, an effort was made to 
get General Grant out of the country. He took a deep interest in the allairo of 
Mexico, and the proposal was made to attach him to the Mexican Embassy. The 
proposition was declined several times. Extracts from these papbrs'a^e'glvcii'i ""■".* 

'• On further and full reflection upon the subject of my accepting the mission, I have most 
respectfully to beg to be excused from the duty proposed^. It iif a diplomatic service for a7fic4 ^ 
am not fitted by education or taste. I most respectluUy but urgently repeat my recpiest to be 
exT:used from the performance of a duty entirely out of my sphere, and one, too, ■which can be so 
much better performed by others." — I'o the President, Oct. 21, 1866. , 

■ In a week it was again urged, by formal letters of instruction, &c., to this, after 
suggesting that Generals Sherman, Sheridan, or Hancock could be appropriately 
employed in this duty, and the reorganization of the array then going on, rendered 
it necessary for him to be in telegraphic communication with department, commanders, 
Grant thus distinctly shows the futility of the schemes. '■■^' v.Mto-. s •. .- mu 

" If it is desirable that our minister should communicate wilh me he can do so through the 
officer who may accompanj' him, with but very little delaj' be3'oud what would be experienced 
if I were to accompany him myself. j[jnight add that I would not. dare counsel the minister in any 
matter beyond stationing of troops on the,' United States soil,, without the concurre^nce of the administra- 
tion. That concurrence could be more speedily had ivith me here than if I were upon the frontier. 
The stationing of troops would be as fully within the control of the accompanying officer as it would 
(f mine. I sincerely hope I may be excused from undert;ikirig,a duty so foreign to my office 
and tastes as that CQntemplated."-r-ieto/ of October 27, 186^65. y^-^j,^, ^hjn^t'i- 

The dates of these documents are worth comparing with those relating to Mary- 
■ laod. At a Cabinet meeting held to discuss this subject, during the period specified 
in the foregoing papers, General Gxant was summoned to attend. Detailed instruc- 
tions relating to the projected visit were read by the Secretary of State. Grant 
again declined. The President then asked the Attorney General if he was in any 
way ineligible for the duty. Before a reply could be made, the General himself, 

said : 

"I can answer that question, Mr. President, without appealing to the Attorney General. 
I-am an American citizen ; have been guilty of no treason or other crime, and am eligible to any 
civil office to which any other American is eligible. But this is a purely civil duty to which you 
would assign me, and I cannot be compelled to undertake it. Any legal military order you give 
mc I will obey ; but this is civil, not military, and I decline the duty." 



EZCHANGE OF PEISONERS— PROTECTION TO OUR SOLDIERS. 

General Grant wrote as follows to Major General Butler, under date " Head- 
quavters Armies of the U. S. in field, Oulpeper C. H., Ya., April 17, 18G4," in 
relauon to the exchange of our prisoners: 

:;7" 1. Touching the validity of the paroles of the prisoners captured at Vicksburg and Port 
Bj,idson. * * 2. The status of ctilored prisoners. 

^.?" A*t» the first, ,no arrapgement. for the exchange of pcisonerg ^i^l be acceded to that does 
aQ^fuMy recognize the validity of th£t^ paroles, #c,,, . .,y^ *•, juoHifyf un? *d Kl. rj mi'j''u*od 



14 

"As to the second, no distinction ivhatcver ivill be made in the exchange hetiveen white and colored 
prisoners, the only question being, Were they, at the time if their capture, in the military sertiice of the 
United States ? If they were, the same terms as to treatment while prisoners, and conditions of release and 
exchange, must be exacted and had in the case of colored soldiers as in the case of white soldiers." 

"Q. It has been said that we refused to exchange prisoners because we found ours starved, 
diseased, and unserviceable when we received them, and did not like to exchange sound men 
for such men ? 

"A. lliere has never been any such reason as that. That has been a reason for making 
exchanges. I will confess that if our men who are prisoners in the South were really well taken 
care of, suffering nothing except a little privation of liberty, then, in a military point of view, 
it would not be good policy for us to exchange ; because every man they get is forced right 
into the array at once, while that is not the case with our prisoners when we receive them. 
In fact, the half of our returned prisoners ivill ne-vtr go into the army again, and none of them ivill until 
after they ha-ve had a furlough of thirty or sixty days. Still, the fact of their suffering as they do is a 
reason for making this exchange as rapidly as possible.''* — Grant's Evidence before the Committee on 
Conduct of the War, Feb. 11, 1865. 



RECONSTRUCTION-PROTECTING OUR SOLDIERS AND LOYAL 

CITIZENS. 

Washington, July 6, 1866. 

General Orders, No. 44. — Department, district, and post commanders in the States lately in 
rebellion are hereby directed to arrest all persons who have been or may hereafter be charged 
with the commission of crimes and offences against officers, agents, citizens, and inhabitants 
of the United States, irrespective of color, in cases where the civil authorities have failed, neg- 
lected, or are unable to arrest and bring such persons to trial, and to detain them in military confine- 
ment until such time as proper Judicial tribunal may be ready and willing to try them. 



"In my opinion the great number of murders of Union men and freedmen in Texas, not 
only as a rule unpunished, but uninvestigated, constitute practically a state of insurrection, and 
believing it to be the province and duty of every good government to afford protection to the lives, lib- 
erty, and property of her citizens, I would recommend the declaration of martial law in Texas to 
secure these ends. 

" The necessity for governing any portion of our territory by martial law is to be deplored. If 
resorted to, it should be limited in its authority, and should leave all local authorities and civil tri- . 
bunals free and unobstructed, until they prove their inefficiency or unwillingness to perform their 
duties. 

" Martial law would gi've security, or comparatively so, to all classes of citizens, without regard 
to race, color, or political opinions, and could be continued until society was capable of protecting 
itself, or until the State is returned to its full relation with the Union. The application of martial 
law to one of these States would be a warning to all, and, if necessary, could be extended to others," 

Grant on Texas affairs, January, ISQI. 



"Although it would meet with opposition in the North to allow Lee the benefit of amnesty, 
I think it would have the best possible effect towards restoring good feeling and peace in the 
South to have him come in. All the people, except a few political leaders in the South, will 
accept whatever he does as right, and be guided to a great extent by his example." 

Letter to the President, 1865. 



"The white and black continually require the protection of the general Government. In 
some form the Freedmen' s Bureau is an absolute necessity, until the civil law is established 
and enforced, securing to freedmen their rights and full protection." 

Grant's Report to the President, January, 1866. 



SHERIDAN'S AND STANTON'S REMOVALS. 

" First. On the subject of the displacement of the Secretery of War, His removal cannot 
be effected against his will without the consent of the Senate. ♦ ♦ » It certainly 



16 

teat the intention of the legislative branch of the Government to place Cabintt minitteri beyond the 
power of Executive removal, and it is pretty well understood that so far as Cabinet ministers are 
affected by the ' tenure-of-oflSce bill,' it was intended specially to protect the Secretary of War, 
whom the country felt great cocfidence in. The meaning of the law may he explained away by 
an astute lawyer, but common sense and the views of loyal people will give to it the effect intended by 
ita/ramers. 

"On the subject of the removal of the very able commander of the fifth military district, 
let me ask you to consider the effect it would have upon the public. * » * jn 
conclusion, allow me to say, as a friend desiring peace and quiet, the welfare of the whole countrtf. 
North and South, that it is in my opinion more than the loyal people of this country (I mean those 
who supported the Government during the great rebellion) will quietly submit to, to see the very 
men of all others whom they had expressed confidence in removed. 

" I would not have taken the liberty of addressing the Executive of the United States thus, 
but for the conversation on the subject alluded to in this letter, and from a sense of duty, feeling 
that Iknotv lam right in this matter." — Grant to the President, August 1, 1867. 

The second was written during the same month. Its principal points are given 

below : 

" It is unmistakably the expressed wish of the country that General Sheridan should not be 
removed from his present command. This is a Republic where the Will of thb People is thb 
Law of the Land. I BEG THAT THEIR VOICE MAY BE HEARD. General Sheridan has 
performed his civil duties faithfully and intelligently. His removal will only be regarded as an 
effort to defeat the laws of Congress. It will be interpreted by the unreconstructed element in the 
South, those who did all they could to break up this Government by arms, and now wish to be the 
only element consulted as to the method of restoring order, as a triumph. It will embolden them to 
renewed opposition to the will of the loyal masses, believing that they have the Executive with them." 

Grant to Johnson, August 17, 1867. 



CONTROVERSY WITH THE PRESIDENT. 

"From our conversations, and my written protest of August 1, 1867, against the removal 
of Mr. Stanton, you must have known that my greatest objection to his removal or suspension 
•was the fear that some one would he appointed in his stead -who would, by opposition to the laivs relating to 
the restoration of the Southern States to their propor relations to the Go-vernment, embarrass the army in the 
performance of duties especially imposed upon it by these laws ; and it was to pre-vent such an appointment 
that I accepted the ofBce of Secretary of War ad interim, and not for the purpose of enabling you 
to get rid of Mr. Stanton hy my withholding it from him in opposition to law, or, not doing so myself, sur- 
render it to one ivho -would, as the statement and assumptions in your communication plainly indicate "wat 
sought. And it was to avoid this same danger, as well as to relieve you from the personal 
embarrassment in which Mr. Stanton's reinstatement would place you, that I urged the appoint- 
ment of Governor Cox, believing that it would be agreeable to you and also to Mr. Stanton — 
satisfied as I was that it was the good of the country, and not the office, the latter desired. * * * 

"The course you would ha-ve it understood I agreed to pursue vias in -violation of law, and without 
orders from you; while the course I did pursue, and which I never doubted you fully understood, was 
in accordance with law, and not in disobedience of any orders of my superior. 

" And now Mr. President, when my honor as a soldier and integrity as a man ha-ve been so -oie^f 
lently assailed, pardon me for saying that I can but regard this whole matter, from the beginning to the end, 
as an attempt to in-vol-ve me in the resistance of law, for which you hesitated to assume the responsibility in 
orders and thus to destroy my character before the country. I am in a measure confirmed in this con- 
clusion by your recent orders directing me to disobey orders from the Secretary of War — my 
superior and your subordinate — without having countermanded his authority to issue the 
orders I am todisobey." — Grant to the President on the restoration of Stanton, Feb. 3, 1868. 



ACCEPTING THE REPUBLICAN NOMINATION. 

"All that I can say is that, to whate-ver position I may be called by your will, I shall endeavor to dis- 
charge its duties with fidelity and honesty of purpose. Of my rectitude in the performance of public dutietf 
you will ka-ve to judge for your sel-vei hy my record before you.'' — Speech in response to a serenade. 



u 

"Gentlemen of the Committee of SoIdiel'^MKMfffflnr 

" I will say that it was never a dfsire of mine to be a candidate for any political office. It 
is a source of gratification to me lo feel that'! haVe the support of those who sustained me in 
the great rebellion through which we have- p'afesed. If I did not feel I had the support of those, I 
■zvould ha-ve ne-ver consented to he a candidate. It was not a matter of choice with me ; but / lope, 
as I ha-ve aceepted, that I luill ha-ve your aid and support from noiv until No-vember, as I had it during 
jtA« r^W/;6»."-^peech May 2-9, 18^. ■ ' • ' '''^'O'-- 
ri ••.:.. '!■•<;;[ f.itr 

"Mr. President and Gentlemen of the.^ational Unidn Con-vention : 

'' I will endeavor, in a very shtvt time, towrite you a letter accepting the trust you have 
imposed upon me. Expressing *»y gratitude for the confidence you have placed in me, I will 
now say but little orally, and that is to- thank you for the unanimity with which you have 
selected me as a candidate for thfe Presidential office. I can say, in addition, I looked on, 
during the progress of the procee^a^ngs at Chicago, with a great deal of interest, aud am grati- 
fied with the harmony and unanimity tvhich' seem to have governed the deliberations of the 
Convention. j. — - 

"If chosen to; fill the high dffice foPwfiicli you have selected me, I ivill gi-ve to its duties, the 
same energy, the same spirit, and the^ same -will that 1 ha-ve gi-ven to the performance of all duties -which 
ha-ve de-vol-ved upn me herefpfore. . Whether^j^^hall be able to perform those duties to your entire 
satisfaction, time will determine. You hay^&^ truly said, in the course of your address, that 
/ shall ha-ve no policy of my o-wn to interpose against the -will of the people." — Speech in reply to Gover- 
nor Ilawley's, tendering the Repubiican.nominatiGn. 

,v-y W^> iyr:< ■ 

^ ^ • '^ ' ' ■ " Washington, D. C. May 29, 1868. 
"Gen. Joseph R. HawleYv' • ' -'^ -^^ ' 

• ' " ■ " President T^ationd) 'tJnion Republican Committee : 

"III formally accepting the nomination of the National Republican Convention, 
it seems proper that some statement of views beyond the mere acceptance of the 
nomination should be expressed. 

" The proceedings of the Convention were marked withwisdom, moderation and 
patriotism, and I believe express the feelings of the great mass of those who 
stistained the country throiigh its recent trials. I endorse their resolutions. If 
elected to the 0J3ace of President of the United States, it will be my endeavor to 
administer all the laws in good faith, with economy, and with the view of giving 
peace, quiet and protection everywhere. In times like the present, it is' impossible, 
or, at least, eminently improper, to lay down a policy to be adhered to, right or 
wrong, through an administration of four years. New political issues, not foreseen, 
are constantly arising; the views of the public on old ones are constantly changing, 
and a purely administrative officer should always be left free to execute the will of 
the people. I always have respected that will, and always shall. 

" Peace and universal prosperity, its sequence, with economy of administration, 

will lighten the burden of taxation, while it constantly reduces the national debt. 

Let us have peace. 

' ' "With great respect, yoi^r obedient servant, 

. ,, ,. . "U,,.S. GRANT." 



" It is an insult to ask any Northern man to support a candidate 
whose anxiety that the Flag should have thirty-six, and not twenty 
stars, did not come to him until after Lee's surrender."— P^-wo^e Letter of 
General GratU, 1866. 



